DELRAY BEACH – Kalem Michel is peaking at the right time.

The American Heritage (Delray Beach) senior defensive tackle had a game to remember last week against Cardinal Newman, as he posted nine tackles, four tackles for loss, four quarterback pressures, one quarterback hit, and one sack in his team’s 19-0 road win on Oct. 30.

As a result of his efforts, Michel was selected as our Honorable Mention on defense for Week 8.

“It was one of my best games,” said Michel, who has offers right now from Bates College, Millsaps College, Ave Maria, and St. Thomas. “Knowing it was my last senior year regular season game, I had to go all out. I’m going both ways and it tired me out, but I did it for my team and Coach Sheridan.”

In five games played so far this season, the 6-foot-2, 265-pound lineman has recorded 35 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, nine quarterback pressures, three quarterback hits, three sacks, and one forced fumble.

“Honestly it’s been going really good,” said Michel, who is currently ranked as our No. 3 defensive tackle and No. 24 overall player in Palm Beach County. “I did what I could to help on both sides of the ball. I have also learned a lot this season since I play both ways.”

Stallions head coach Nick Martinez marveled at the way Michel has stepped his game up in more ways than one.

“Kalem’s emergence as a dominant player on both sides is what makes the team go,” Martinez said. “He plays at a high level on both sides and consistently grades out on top on the offensive line and defensive line.”

PLEASE NOTE: Michel will have at least one more full game of film on the high school football level.

Here’s how: American Heritage (2-3) will be playing on the road in the Class 4A regional quarterfinals at Avon Park (2-4) on Friday, Nov. 13. The kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

PHOTO CREDITS: Keith Forde